Slice of Life: Friends

22. Things Change

"Is the seat taken?" Frida said.

Maya glanced up from the book she was reading and shrugged. Frida cleared her throat and sat down beside her. Sarah was helping Sarosh with their science project, and Maya was taking her lunch outside. It was a clear day—too good to stay indoors. The beautiful view of the mountains in the distance and the flower bushes surrounding her was soothing. Their school had a well-kept garden and Maya loved to take her lunch there whenever she got the chance.

"So," Frida sounded nervous, which was odd for her.

Maya wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone, but it would be rude to ignore her. She said, "Sorry, I have been delaying working on our project. I promise to start tomorrow."

"Oh, that's fine," Frida smiled. "We have plenty of time. I'm good at science. I'm sure we can do it in time."

"Thanks for understanding."

After that, both girls sat there in awkward silence. Maya had closed her book and joined Frida in staring at the clear blue sky. Neither knew what to say. They weren't fighting anymore, but they surely weren't best friends. In a few months' time, Maya had matured beyond her years. Her animosity towards Frida seemed foolish now.

"Sarah is nice," Frida broke the silence. "Sarosh too. I like them."

"I know. And I like them too."

Once again, the two were quiet.

"So, this is awkward," Frida stated the obvious, then blurted out, "I want us to be friends again."

"Are you feeling sorry for me because my parents got divorced?" She couldn't think of any other reason for Frida's sudden change in attitude.

"No, of course not. That's absurd," Frida rushed to explain. "I have been meaning to say this for a while now. It just never seemed to be the right time. I miss you. You were my best friend and I want that back."

Maya stared at her for a moment and then beamed. "I miss you too. Why were we fighting, anyway?"

Frida returned the smile and said, "Beats me. By the way, what are you reading?"

And just like that, they had broken the ice and chatted away like old friends who never drifted apart. Miss Janet was on to something when she made them lab partners. And Maya realized sometimes change could be good.